Aquaponic Greenhouse Prototype for Kenya
Who?
Travis W. Hughey is the co-founder of F.A.S.T.
What?
An aquaponic's prototype (combination of hydroponics and aquaculture) system using 700 gallon elevated ferro-cement flood tank technology which uses no float switches, electronic timers or microprocessors to control the flood and drain parameters of the system. There are 37 barrel half growbeds. In the shallow pond water, hyacinth and water lettuce are grown. The entire system consumes less than 400 watts of energy.
Why?
This project shows a sustainable way to urban farming that can be constructed in developing countries.
Fish from the sky with vegetables (GLOBE/HEDRON)
Who
Antonio Scarponi is the founder of Conceptual Devices. He studied architecture at Cooper Union, NY and holds a M. A. and PhD in Urban Design from IUAV, Venice. He has lectured at schools of architecture and design throughout Europe and the U.S and his work has been exhibited at galleries and museums internationally.
What
The structure is a bamboo greenhouse designed to organically grow fish and vegetables on top of generic flat roofs. The design is optimized for aquaponic farming techniques: the fish’s water nourishes the plants and plants clean the water for the fish. This farming technique can feed four families of four all year round and is designed to be manufactured and retailed at a low cost. The units can be combined to increase the food production capacity.
Using a geodesic dome, the load of the fish tank rests on the frame of the greenhouse and is redistributed to a larger surface. Because of this design, the aquaponic farm can be housed on more roofs without any structural building adaptation. The dome structure is designed to be built with bamboo, so that it is biodegradable and organically farmed.
You can read more about the project here. This project was done in collaboration with Urban Farmers.
Why
This closed aquaponic and farming system is good inspiration for the work we are doing at the Fabriek. It is sustainable, transportable, and easy to assemble; with a very beautiful and innovative design.